By Michael Elkins
Autonomous and shared mobility solutions company, Beep Inc. announced Tuesday that the company has entered a partnership with the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).
This partnership expands NCDOT's Connected Autonomous Shuttle Supporting Innovation (CASSI) program to further the state's understanding of autonomous technologies and demonstrate the viability of shared autonomy. NCDOT and Beep will test applicable use cases for shared electric and autonomous shuttles.
The first pilot project will operate in Cary, North Carolina's Fred G. Bond Metro Park, a four-stop, two-mile route. NCDOT and Beep are working to establish additional test locations in the state.
"Beep is honored to have been selected by NCDOT to bring innovative autonomous mobility solutions to Cary," said Beep CEO Joe Moye. "We are pleased to be working closely with the agency on this pilot, our first in North Carolina, which will showcase how shared autonomous mobility can make a lasting positive impact in the community. Autonomous shuttles promise to relieve roadway congestion and help address carbon emissions, noise pollution and road safety, while extending mobility access. We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with NCDOT and Cary to showcase these capabilities to residents and visitors."
"The future of transportation includes shared mobility options that are as convenient, reliable, affordable, clean and as safe as driving, and allow every person equal access to opportunities and services," said NCDOT Secretary Eric Boyette. "The CASSI shuttle helps make this vision a reality."
"This project is a great opportunity for Cary residents and visitors to Bond Park to experience the latest in autonomous vehicle technology," said Cary Chief Information Officer Nicole Coughlin. "Innovation is a priority for Cary, and CASSI will help us better understand how we might integrate and accommodate autonomous technologies into our plans."